Course Objectives: Students will learn 1) musicianship, 2) proper guitar technique, 3) how to present expressive and historically accurate performances of guitar literature, and 4) the basic mechanisms of an ensemble and rehearsal techniques.

Materials:  Students are expected to bring their instrument, music and a pencil to each rehearsal.  Additionally, guitar students should have the following: footstool, concert attire (black slacks, black dress shirt, black socks and black shoes), metronome, music dictionary and other necessities.

Grading:  Every rehearsal and performance is graded.  Those grades are based on preparation, improvement (if any), attendance and overall ensemble success.  An "A" grade shows exceptional work and a "B" grade shows that progress was made.  A grade of "C" or lower shows below average work and progress. 

Students are expected to prepare and practice their ensemble parts.  I am able to discern if a student is underprepared or just nervous.  If I deem a student to be underprepared I will ask that student to go to a practice room to get prepared.

Ensemble rehearsals are intended to be times when the entire piece can be practiced, allowing for work on balance, shaping, expression and other ensemble specific issues.  Underprepared students force the ensemble to wait on their progress - limiting greatly the ability of the ensemble to meet its goals.